3 Defenders Linked With a Move to Man City this January

Man City have been extremely poor defensively so far this season, conceding 22 goals in the Premier League despite being led by world class manager Pep Guardiola.

Their defensive frailties are largely as a result of their personnel at the back, with the likes of Bacary Sagna, Alexander Kolarov and Nicolas Otamendi making too many individual mistakes.

Consequently, the Blues will be looking to sign some defenders this January; here are three defenders Guardiola could bring to the Etihad before the end of the transfer window.

Aymeric Laporte:

After trying to sign the high rated centre-back in the summer, City have reportedly rekindled their interest in French defender Aymeic Laporte, according to the Mirror.

The Frenchman is one of the best young defenders in Europe, justifying his £55m buyout clause.

The Athletic Bilbao player expressed that he would be open to move away from the Spanish club saying in an interview: “You have to think about offers and, if new proposals comes along, I will study them.”

Laporte is exceptional on the ball with the passing range and vision of a central midfielder. The Frenchman is also quick across the ground and dominant in the air, making him the definition of a modern centre-back.

James Bree:

After exceptional performances in the league this season as well as in the FA cup this weekend, Man City are reportedly interested in Barnsley defender James Bree, according to the Mirror.

The 19 year old is a right back by trade, however he can also play in a wing back position and even in midfield.

The Blues, however, will have to fight off interest from multiple Premier League Clubs including Spurs, Man United and Arsenal however if Guardiola makes a move it will be hard for the Englishman to turn it down.

Although he is a great young talent and future prospect, it is debatable whether he has enough quality or experience to start in the Premier League at the moment, however it would certainly be a great long-term acquisition.

Holger Badstuber:

Guardiola is going to reunite with Bayern Munich defender Holger Badstuber by bring him to the Etihad, according to Sky Sports News.

The Spanish Manager praised the German defender in a recent interview stating: “I know Holger, he’s a fantastic player, a fantastic guy, but he’s Bayern Munich’s player and we should first of all speak with them and with him.”

As with many of Guardiola’s signings in recent years, the experienced defender has been halted by injuries throughout his career.

At 27 years old he may want to move on to a club where he will be a regular starter, which is likely at Man City.